The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class George E. Gilkey (ASN: 32267597), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action in Italy on 9 December 1944. On that date he was assigned with another man to a forward observation post to report on enemy activity by phone to the company command post. When mortar fire destroyed the position, he was mortally wounded, but remained watching the enemy while the other man went for help. He died after reporting the location of enemy mortar positions. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.